Welcome to my home in the blogosphere. I'll be exploring my favorite books, movies, and the writing world in general, along with discovering my new home, California. I'll also be sharing my old home, New Hampshire with you. Thanks for popping in and I hope you enjoy some romance under the moonlight.

"Let me." The urge to protect
her surged in him and he stepped in front of her, entering the room. The sheets
on the bed were crumpled, bureau drawers were spread across the floor and her
clothes were tossed about.

****BLURB:

Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

One never knows the twists and turns life takes, and
certainly Max Laundry is on a bumpy ride. After witnessing a murder in a Texas
coalmine, he runs away only to discover the McGinnis farm. Will the kindness of
strangers give Max the strength he needs to go forward?

Max meets Annie McGinnis, a young, impressionable girl torn
between her dreams and her family's hard working, honest-to-the-bone ethic.
Annie yearns for something more out of life, but is uncertain which way to go.
When Max is accused of murder, Annie and her brother, Clifford, help to defend
his innocence. This incident puts events in motion that will define Max and
Annie's future paths.

Yeary pens a slow-burn, sweet, western romance full of angst
and tenderness. The novel is set in Texas, 1901. Yeary's portrayal of the west
is real and honest, depicting the hardships many settlers endured.

Yeary's rich characterization is the best part of the novel.
Max isn't perfect. Along with Annie, they both make honest mistakes and
"safe" choices, yet it's the promise of the unsafe choice that
lingers with them. Dare they forge their futures uncertain of what lies ahead?
These are issues modern readers can connect with and take to heart.

This is a sweet romance novel with Max and Annie sharing no
more than a kiss or two, yet it's the emotional content that makes their
romance feel just right. "Wish for the Moon," is a great heartwarming
story. I highly recommend this book.

Ella helped Logan tie on the patriotic
balls and they recovered the ladder, putting it away in the shed. When they
finished, they sat on the shaded porch and sipped on his mom's lemonade. Ella
didn't complain once.

He wiped his brow with a napkin, "I'm
pooped."

"You worked hard," she said.

"So did you, thank you."

"It was fun. The fourth has always
been one of my favorite holidays,"she replied.

****BLURB:

Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

Friday, June 19, 2015

BLURB: Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her.

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good? ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Phil lunged at Rachel, grabbing her
wrist. He tugged her toward him and bared his teeth showing off his pronounced
incisors.

Fear spiked and raced down her spine. She
couldn't allow him to bite her. She'd die. Rachel glanced at Suzie, who cleared
her throat, then pursed her lips. Suzie had never supported Rachel, but she
could tell Suzie was prepping a spell. Suzie's willingness to stick up for a
fellow witch despite their differences gave Rachel the courage she needed.

"Let go of her!" Joe yelled. He
rushed toward them from the door and tackled Phil. They sprawled over Anna's
table, sending items flying. Rachel stumbled backward into Anna and they landed
on the floor.

Phil turned to face Joe, pushing him off.
Joe swung, striking Phil in the jaw. Blood splattered. Phil hesitated and
brought his hand to his mouth, wiping blood onto his fingers from a cut in his
mouth.

"No!" Rachel screamed. She
flung out her hands and sent a blast of magic aimed right at Phil. He flung
backward striking the bar, but not before his fingernails scrapped the side of
Joe's face.

Joe gasped and collapsed.

"Oh, broomsticks, no!" Rachel
rushed forward, praying that none of Phil's blood had gotten onto Joe's wounds.
She couldn't lose her best friend, her one true love. Glancing at Phil, he lay
in a mess unconscious at the bar, Sam next to him.

Logan approached his parents. "Mom,
Dad, this is Ella. She's in town for the tennis tournament. Ella, my parents,
Julie and Sam Donovan."

Ella offered her hand and his father
stood, returning her hand shake. Logan noticed his father favored his right
foot.

"You look familiar," Logan's
father said.

"I get confused with Maria Sharipova
on occasion."

****BLURB:

Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

Logan hung up and slipped the phone into
his pocket. A bit of melted ice cream pooled around his fingers. Licking it up,
he noticed Ella staring down the street. Had something or someone
caught her attention?

"Ella?"

She turned around quickly and her emerald
eyes sparkled in the sunlight, "Oh, sorry."

He didn't know if he should press for an
explanation. Her beautiful features were marred with concern, but he just met
her and he didn't want to come off as rude.

****BLURB:

Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

Thursday, June 4, 2015

BLURB: Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her.

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good? ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

The rust, purple, and gold colored autumn leaves swirled around their feet
as they proceeded down the sidewalk.
"I'll walk you home." Joe flashed Rachel his charming smile. "Sure. I need to get my backpack. It's back in the gym."
He escorted her. "How was your first day of cheer?" His voice betrayed
his curiosity.
"Okay."
"Just okay? You couldn't stop talking about it before you joined."
They entered the gym and she picked up her backpack. "It wasn't what I
expected."
"Want to tell me?"
"Not really."
They proceeded down the empty hall toward the front door. Rachel pulled
her sweater out of her pack and slid her arms into it. The sun was close to
the horizon and the temperature had dropped.
"You can tell me anything." Joe jammed his hands into his pockets. "I know. It's just not easy to discuss."

"Okay." He began walking again and Rachel stayed close to him. Why
was it hard to tell Joe? Maybe because she was sick and tired of talking
about how she got picked on constantly. Maybe she was drained. Did she
really want to be a cheerleader with such a nasty bunch of girls? She
paused and glanced at Joe. He had to put up with Phil Bean's constant
harassment. So had she over the years. She let out a long breath. Rachel
would do anything for Joe – even be a cheerleader so she could be equal to
him. Equal? Was that the right word? Worthy? Or simply close? Why was
she so nervous right now?
"I got letters for Boston College, Ohio State, and Stanford. Florida even
offered me a full scholarship to play football."
"That's great, Joe." Her heart sunk lower. They continued down the
sidewalk. The breeze chilled suddenly.
"You don't sound too thrilled."
"I am – really. You have a lot of opportunities."
"Rachel—"
She stopped and hung her shoulders. Tears welled up in her eyes. A sob
wracked her throat.
"Hey, hey, don't cry." Joe placed his hands on her shoulders.
She tensed. "I'm sorry. I can't help it..."
He reached for her hand, using a gentleness he rarely displayed, and led
them to the wall near the main quad. He sat her down and took the spot
next to her. She wiped her tears on her sleeve.
Joe reached into the front pocket of her backpack and pulled out some
tissues. Rachel's fingers brushed against his, sending comforting warmth
though her arm. It helped to settle her frazzled nerves. She blew her nose.
Her eyes were still moist, but the tears had stopped.
"Hey, I'll play football locally. B.C. isn't that far away."
"Joe, don't pick Boston because of me—"
"You're the best reason to go to Boston."

She placed her hand over her heart. "But you have so many
possibilities..."
"I don't want them if I can't share them with you."
She drew in a breath and slid her hand over his. "You can do anything.
Don't let me hold you back."
"Nope. I don't want to do it unless you're there."
"But you have a talent—"
"No, I'm awkward. Heck, I couldn't tie my shoes until seventh grade and
you taught me. I can barely sign my name on a check. I still cover my ears
when the crowd gets too loud at games. And don't ask me to sit still in
English class." He paused. "Look, you're talented, too. You're kind and
caring. You'd make a great nurse or even a doctor and you have the smarts
for it."
"I'm just as awkward as you. At least you don't mind being touched."
"Well, I can't stand using shaving cream. Scraping my face with a razor is
too intense for me. I don't know if you noticed."
"Yes, I've noticed." She flashed him a small grin.
Silence grew between them. The knots in Rachel's stomach relaxed. Joe
could always bring her spirits up, especially when the world weighed
down her shoulders. Knowing that he wanted to be close to her after high
school warmed her soul. She took in a breath and drew on her courage.
"Three girls made fun of me at practice. One of them was a witch, too.
Anna stuck up for me."
"That sucks. I'm glad Anna was there for you." He hesitated. "Phil tried to
hide my shoulder pads before practice but they're too big and he's too
stupid to find a good spot."
She giggled.
"You keep cheering and don't let those nasty girls get you down. You're
stronger than that. If I can play football, you can cheer."
"Thanks, Joe." She squeezed hand. The urge to kiss him filled her heart.

His eyes softened. He reached over and embraced her, only this time his
hug was different – tighter, unrestrained. His muscles shook. Did he feel
the same?
His long, slender build enveloped her, filling her entire body with an
unusual warmth and courage she hadn't known before. Joe was willing to
sacrifice his opportunities for her. Rachel pulled away and gazed into his
beautiful green-malachite eyes. Kiss him.
She cupped his cheek, unable to turn away. His lips parted. He leaned
close. She leaned closer. A warm wind wiped around them like a sweet
cocoon. Their mouths skirted each other. His breath hinted at citrus. They
met in a mutual tender kiss. She trembled next to him, anxious, happy, and
eager all at once.
Joe's body tensed. He parted, leaving her breathless. She ran her
fingernails over his cheek and stubble along his jaw. He reached for her
hand and clasped her wrist. "Wow," he whispered. BUY LINKS:AMAZON:http://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMOB&N:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1122051463?ean=2940151946490SMASHWORDS:https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938KOBO:https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/young-witchcraft

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

We've read about them and we've even tasted them. They're
sweet, bitter, gritty, and sour. They're aphrodisiacs.But do they really heighten romance?

As defined, an aphrodisiac is a food or drink that increases
sexual desire. But do they really or is it just a fantasy? Is it just a fantasy
effect at the mention of oysters or strawberries or does eating them really put
you "in the mood?"

Some of the well known aphrodisiacs include oysters,
chocolate, strawberries, artichokes, pomegranate, and even whipped cream.

Biologically speaking…

Oysters are high in zinc and zinc controls progesterone
levels. This allows oysters to have a positive effect on the libido. Trust me,
it's proven to work.

Strawberries are high in vitamin c which helps the blood
flow to every part of the body.

Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants that also increase
blood flow.

The artichoke's appeal comes from the couple pealing off the
leaves and eating it together. As for whipped cream, there's no evidence it
heightens a physical, biological response, but it sure is fun to play with, so
I'd venture to say it's not about the taste, but the texture.

You'll find these aphrodisiacs in romance writing are used
to heighten the mood and ambience of the scene. Vivid descriptions of red,
plump strawberries dripping in sweet juices most certainly help to enhance the
sexual tension between a couple.

Question for you: In your romance writing, do you use aphrodisiacs? Why or Why not?

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Julie Stav talks about life and money in this engaging book
about finances. Stav tells it like it is with an easy, conservational voice the
reader can understand.

Do you know your spending profile? Stav does – and she’ll
help you to understand how you spend money. That’s half the battle. Once you
establish what profile you fit, she talks to you about investing, saving for
old age, retirement, and how to teach your kids about money.

Stav uses real life scenarios to effectively communicate her
messages. Her writing style is easy to understand and engaging. Stav’s
explanations bring complicated money matters down to Earth.

This book is good for readers who simply don’t have a good
financial background and are looking for a place to start. A great read.

Question for you: Do you have a piece of financial advice that works for you? I'd love for us to share ideas.

Monday, June 1, 2015

It's with great excitement I'm sharing: My novel, "A Lady Never Lies," is a RONE Finalist in the InD'Tales magazine awards competition in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy Category!! BLURB FOR: A LADY NEVER LIESJocelyn Dunkirk is not your typical Victorian lady. She dresses in leather, wears goggles and is not afraid to get a little grease under her fingernails. Gentlemen avoid her like a dirty rivet.

Richard Windsor, the Prince of Wales, travels through time to claim Jocelyn's heart, but if it isn't one challenge, it's another. He determines to be a constant, steady presence in her life, hoping to prove he'd make a worthy husband.

Jocelyn's facing a bucket full of problems. The Prime Minister wants her to assist in ending a coal strike before it cripples the nation while her father attempts to recover from a serious injury. Will Jocelyn's dedication to her country and family ruin the one chance she has at love?

EXCERPT:

She swatted her hand next to her head like she was swatting a fly. Love could flitter away from her heart like a hummingbird for all she cared. Who needed it? Love hurt.

A knock rapped on the door, but before she could voice a reply, Richard walked in. He crossed the room, raw concern splayed over his face and he knelt before her. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"You look annoyed."

"A lady never cusses," she replied.

His lips tipped in amusement. "What else does a lady never do?"

"They never wear the same dress twice."

He pulled up a chair and sat in front of her. "I believe that."

"And a lady never lies," she said.

He slid his hand over hers and laced their fingers together. A sweet jolt pulsed up her arm and she smiled despite herself.

"So what's bothering you?" he asked.

REVIEWS:"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue ReviewThis is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

To comply with new FTC regulations, please assume all books reviewed on this site have been provided free of charge by the publisher or the author. Please note links to buy books are provided as a convenience, and do not serve as an endorsement by this blog.

***********

Quotes on writing:

"Transitions are critically important. I want the reader to turn the page without thinking she's turning the page. It must flow seamlessly." - Janet Evanovich

"You can stroke people with words."~ F. Scott Fitzgerald

"Words are... the most powerful drug used by mankind."~ Rudyard Kipling

Write drunk; edit sober.- Ernest Hemingway

"A word is deadWhen it is said, Some say.I say it just Begins to liveThat day."~ Emily Dickenson

"Never Regret. If it's good, it's

wonderful. If it's bad, it's

experience." - Victoria Holt

The Ethereal Gazette #12

My horror story with Lovecraftian undertones, "THE SCORPION TEMPLE" is in this anthology.

The Giving Meadow

My Children's Book, The Giving Meadow is now available through 4RV Publishing

Royal Pretender - A historical short story in THE CUPID DIARIES

A Royal Pretender seeks the hand of the beautiful, melancholy Caroline of Ansbach but can he win her heart despite his disguise?

Across The Fickle Winds of History

Paul Kerensky must stop Olga Romanov from being named the Heir Presumptive

About Me

A member of Generation X, Stephanie was born in Manchester, New Hampshire. After graduating from Central High, she joined the U.S. Army. She spent 11 years in the military, 7 stationed in Germany. While in the military she earned her B.S. in Political Science from California Baptist University in Riverside, CA in 1995. She left the Army in 1997 and settled in California. She now works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. The New England Patriots are still her favorite football team. Stephanie has been married for over 19 years. She has two boys, Andrew, 8, and Joseph, 4.